Name: Iced Oatmeal Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup shortening; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup water; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon; 2 cups oats (quick cooking or old fashioned); 4 tablespoons milk; 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted); Water (as needed)

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If you’re looking for a delightful treat that reminds you of cozy afternoons and childhood memories, then this Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is just the thing! These cookies pair perfectly with a glass of cold milk, making them a fantastic after-school snack or a sweet addition to your family gatherings. The balance of crispy edges and chewy centers, topped with creamy vanilla icing, is simply irresistible.

Baking these cookies doesn’t just fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas; it brings everyone together. Whether you’re enjoying them on a busy weeknight or serving them at a weekend get-together, these cookies are bound to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just about 22 minutes, making it perfect for those last-minute cravings.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these sweet treats—great for sharing!
Versatile Enjoyment: Ideal for school lunches, afternoon snacks, or dessert after dinner.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these wholesome ingredients in your pantry already!
Make-Ahead Option: Bake a batch ahead of time and store them for up to a week—if they last that long!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these delicious iced oatmeal cookies, you’ll be using simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookies

3/4 cup shortening
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
2 cups oats (quick cooking or old fashioned)

For the Icing

4 tablespoons milk
2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
Water (as needed)

Variations

This Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra sweet treat.
Nutty Twist: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices such as ginger or allspice to give your cookies an aromatic twist.
Vegan Option: Replace shortening with coconut oil and use plant-based milk for the glaze to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

How to Make Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Shortening and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the shortening and sugars until light and fluffy. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the mixture, helping your cookies become soft and tender.

Step 2: Add Water and Vanilla

Next, beat in the water and vanilla extract. These liquids not only add flavor but also help bind the dry ingredients together later on.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Gradually add this mixture to your creamed ingredients until well combined. Folding in the oats ensures you get that delightful chewy texture throughout each cookie.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto greased baking sheets using a medium cookie scoop. Spacing them out allows room for spreading as they bake.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Letting them cool on the baking sheet for two minutes before transferring them to a wire rack is key to maintaining their shape.

Step 6: Create the Icing

While your cookies cool, prepare the icing by stirring milk into sifted powdered sugar. Adjust with water as necessary until you reach your desired consistency for dipping.

Step 7: Dip Those Cookies!

Quickly dip the top of each cookie into the glaze and allow any excess to drip off. This final touch adds sweetness and makes each bite even more delightful!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these Iced Oatmeal Cookies! Perfectly crispy yet chewy—these treats are sure to bring smiles around your table.

Pro Tips for Making Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Creating the perfect iced oatmeal cookies is easy with a few helpful tips to guide you!

Use Fresh Oats: Ensure your oats are fresh for optimal flavor and texture. Old oats can lose their natural sweetness and chewiness.
Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.
Cool Completely Before Icing: Allow the cookies to cool completely before dipping them in icing. This prevents the glaze from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
Adjust Glaze Consistency: If the icing is too thick, add a little more water to reach your desired consistency. A thinner glaze will create a lovely, smooth coating on each cookie.
Store Properly: Keep your iced oatmeal cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain their freshness for days!

How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Serving iced oatmeal cookies can be both fun and creative! Here are some ideas to present this delightful treat beautifully.

Garnishes

Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles on top of the glaze for a festive touch that appeals to kids and adults alike.
Cinnamon Dust: Lightly dust with additional cinnamon for extra flavor and a warm, inviting aroma.

Side Dishes

Milk: A classic pairing, serve your cookies with a cold glass of milk for a nostalgic treat reminiscent of childhood.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing side of mixed berries or seasonal fruit complements the sweetness of the cookies while adding a nutritious boost.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a delicious, creamy contrast that balances out the cookie’s flavors.
Coffee or Tea: Offer a warm beverage alongside your cookies; coffee adds depth, while herbal tea provides a soothing balance.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy these delicious treats throughout the week without any hassle!

Storing Leftovers

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
If you want to maintain their freshness, consider adding a slice of bread to the container, which helps keep them moist.

Freezing

Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Transfer frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To enjoy cookies warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make the Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping and baking.

How do I store my Iced Oatmeal Cookies?

Store your iced oatmeal cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for approximately 5 days if stored properly.

Can I freeze the Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe?

Yes, you can freeze the iced oatmeal cookies after they have cooled completely. Just ensure they are placed in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they can last up to 3 months.

What can I substitute for shortening in this recipe?

You can use an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil as a substitute for shortening if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe. These cookies bring together the comforting flavors of oats and sweet icing, making them a truly special treat. Enjoy sharing these with friends and family or savoring them with a cozy cup of tea. Happy baking!